Forty-five points. For 17 days, the Philadelphia 76ers simmered over that embarrassing smackdown loss in Chicago and refused to forget it like it was just another 'L' over a long season. When it was time for payback, they resolved to defend their home court.

Another injury to center Yao Ming is not good for the Houston Rockets, but they got the best news possible when tests Thursday revealed a mild sprain of his left ankle. He is expected out for a minimum of a week.

Another injury to center Yao Ming is not good for the Houston Rockets, but they got the best news possible when tests Thursday revealed a mild sprain of his left ankle. He is expected out for a minimum of a week.